The recent episode of AEW Dynamite on Tuesday night created a stir due to a controversial angle that many are accusing of being antisemitic.
During a promo segment between Juice Robinson and Maxwell Jacob Friedman, Robinson taunted MJF, who is Jewish, with a roll of quarters on which he had written Friedman’s last name.
😬 https://t.co/lV8KyVN4op pic.twitter.com/hnPjP5BHyJ
— CJ Fogler account may or may not be notable (@cjzero) October 11, 2023
This reference holds significance because in past promos, MJF has mentioned being targeted by antisemitic bullies who threw quarters at him during his high school days.
On the other hand, Robinson has previously used a roll of quarters as a weapon in his wrestling persona as a heel.
However, the decision to use this reference, particularly in an antagonistic manner towards a Jewish wrestler, has sparked controversy, especially given the recent Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.
Jay White challenged #AEW World Champion MJF to an 8-man tag match!
But will anyone team up with Max?
Watch #AEWDynamite Title Tuesday LIVE on TBS!@The_MJF | @JayWhiteNZ pic.twitter.com/WITImXJE1B
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) October 11, 2023
The timing of this angle has been heavily criticized on social media after it aired on TBS. Even if Friedman approved the promo,
many believe that AEW should have exercised better judgment in approving it, considering the sensitive global tensions surrounding antisemitism.
Yep I am not down with this. https://t.co/D2NCOR1mt8
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) October 11, 2023
Whew, Juice. That was a choice!
— Kazeem Famuyide 🇳🇬 🍎 (@Kazeem) October 11, 2023
I’ve said this many times – politics and religion are two things you shouldn’t touch publicly because you risk dividing your audience. A storyline involving the suggestion of antisemitism is bad business, period. https://t.co/zs6Zvq6EFL
— Jimmy Van (@jimmyvan74) October 11, 2023
Furthermore, AEW was under increased scrutiny on Tuesday as it went head to head with WWE NXT. Due to Dynamite being moved because of TBS’ coverage of the MLB Playoffs, both AEW and WWE loaded up their cards and secured commercial-free stretches to win the ratings battle.
The response to this controversial segment will be closely watched. AEW, company owner Tony Khan, and broadcast partner Warner Bros.
Discovery are expected to address the backlash and assess the impact it may have on their brand image.
It remains to be seen how they will handle the situation and whether any actions or statements will be made to address the concerns raised.
